newy.com.au – Public schools across Lake Macquarie, Maitland and the wider Hunter will showcase student achievement, community spirit and 70 years of local education during Public Education Week from Monday.
This year’s theme, “Inspiring Excellence”, will be reflected in school performances, awards, open classrooms and community events across the region.
At Speers Point Public School, the focus will extend beyond academic achievement to student wellbeing when the school holds a Jeans for Genes Day fundraiser on Thursday, August 6.
Year 1 student Spencer, who lives with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, is one of five children featured in this year’s Children’s Medical Research Institute campaign.
Students and staff will wear denim or blue in exchange for a gold coin donation, with proceeds from a bake sale also supporting the institute’s research and efforts to improve children’s lives.
Principal Chris Payne said inspiring excellence encompassed all aspects of school life, including academic work, sport, leadership and students supporting one another.
“I am very proud about how our school has got behind the Institute’s campaign this year,” Mr Payne said.
“Supporting each other to the best of our ability is the cement in a school community, and a cohesive school community is one that enables excellence to be achieved.”
Families will also be invited to attend the school’s Education Week assembly at 10am on Wednesday, August 5, followed by open classrooms from 10.30am to 11am.
“Many parents and carers are aware of the great progress their children are making through what their children and staff tell them, but seeing the variety and quality of work first hand strengthens that understanding and connection to the school even more,” Mr Payne said.
Kurri Kurri High School will use Public Education Week to mark a major milestone, celebrating 70 years since it first opened its doors on August 4, 1956.
The school will hold an open afternoon from 3pm to 5pm on Tuesday, August 4, featuring student performances, displays and afternoon tea. The event will be open to the community.
Eight public schools from Black Hill to Millers Forest will come together at Francis Greenway High School in Beresfield for the Gateway Learning Community Education Week Showcase from 6pm on Wednesday, August 5.
The program will include performances by the Gateway Learning Community choir and Aboriginal Dance Group while highlighting students’ work and talent.
Maitland High School will host the Maitland Learning Community Public Education Week Awards from 5.30pm to 7pm on Tuesday, August 4. The event will recognise academic achievement and leadership across Maitland public schools, feature student performers and give the school’s hospitality students an opportunity to demonstrate their catering skills.
NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar said public schools offered students a wide range of pathways to pursue their interests and ambitions.
“From STEM and performing arts to languages, trades and specialist programs, NSW public schools offer diverse and innovative learning pathways that connect students to rewarding careers,” Mr Dizdar said.
“Our high potential and gifted education program, Inspire, ensures all students, regardless of where they live, are challenged, nurtured and supported to grow and achieve their potential.”
The week will also feature the annual Public Education Awards, which recognise contributions by students, teachers, support staff, schools, parents and volunteers across NSW.
“There is so much to be proud of in public education,” Mr Dizdar said.
“Public Education Week is the perfect time to get involved with your child’s school and to celebrate your local school’s commitment to inspiring excellence.”
